My cat's tongue is always out. Is this normal or a sign of stress?
Updated On September 23rd, 2025
Hi why is my cat's tongue always like this? Is she stressed? If she is what can I do to lessen that or to make her happy? She just moved to us about a month ago. She's a year old and used to live to my uncle's friend as a kitten. So I'm kinda thinking that maybe she's still adjusting but I'm kinda worried.
2 Answers
Most Helpful Answer
Published on September 6th, 2018
Hi, thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! She is adorable! Some cats do this and it is normal. It doesn't usually indicate that they are sick. They tend to stick a bit of their tongue out when they are relaxed and/or sleeping. It isn't an indication of stress. Sometimes it goes away with age. I wouldn't worry too much if she is eating, drinking and playful. Have a good day!
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Related Answers from Veterinarians
-
Published on January 2nd, 2018
It could be completely normal! Or it could happen with trauma to the mouth, some nerve disorders, or something else. My oldest dog does this, but it is because she has lost most of her front teeth. If Princess is otherwise normal and eating and drinking well, then I would not be worried about it. If she isn't otherwise well, then I would have her checked out by a vet to see what could be the cause.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Hi I was wondering if my cat sticking out his tongue like if he was a dog. He doesn’t do it for long and I only notice him doing it a couple times? Should I be concerned ?
why does my pet cat let her tongue hang out a little when it is relaxed?
My cats mouth won’t close all the way. He never has his mouth closed and he either has it open slightly or has his tongue out, I’ve only just taken notice of it but when I look back he’s always had it. He’s only 4months old, his sister doesn’t have t
Hi! So lately I’ve been noticing my cat sticking out his tongue (like picture) but he doesn’t do it all the time it’s just once in a while. So I looked it up and from what I see vets say it because they have plaque build up and it uncomfortable for t
My 10 yr. old male cat has grey/black in the middle of his tongue. Problem?
My cats tongue is hanging out and she is drooling Should I take her to the vet
My 4 year old kitty Thumbelina developed this thing in the middle of her tongue, I can say without a doubt that it was not there yesterday, I noticed it today when she went to eat dry food and didn’t seem to be able to pick it up, she would just drop
My kitten has an upper respiratory infection and he's really congested and I notice his tongue sticking out of his mouth...is this normal? Thank you!
Why does my puppy stick her tongue out?
When my kitty plays or runs a lot she starts sticking her tongue out and panting. She recovers fairly quickly and acts normal other than the panting. Just want to know if this is normal or it warrants a trip to the vets office.
Book an appointment with the pros – our expert vets are here to help.
